TTCL Ordered to Fix Border Network in 30 Days

TTCL Given 30-Day Deadline to Improve Border Connectivity

Friday, March 21, 2025

In a decisive move to enhance digital connectivity at the Tanzania-Malawi border, Deputy Minister for Information, Communication and Information Technology, Engineer Maryprisca Mahundi, has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Tanzania Telecommunications Corporation (TTCL) to resolve persistent network issues affecting the Kasumuru border in Kyela District, Mbeya Region.

The directive follows mounting concerns from officials at the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), who reported that poor network coverage is hindering effective communication with their Malawian counterparts, thereby affecting cross-border operations.

During a working visit to Kasumuru on Thursday, March 20, 2025, Mahundi emphasized the urgency of resolving the matter swiftly to ensure seamless communication and maximize the benefits of the government’s substantial investments in digital infrastructure.

“Our goal is to ensure Tanzanians living along the borders benefit from government initiatives and stay connected to national developments,” Mahundi stated.

Despite the installation of the national fibre optic backbone in Kyela and other regions, challenges persist, particularly in areas where Malawian networks overpower Tanzanian signals, leading to operational disruptions and user dissatisfaction.

The Deputy Minister tasked TTCL’s regional leadership with accelerating efforts to improve coverage in the area, stressing the need for efficiency and accountability.

“The government has invested heavily in telecommunications. It’s time our service providers match that effort with excellent service delivery to reduce public complaints,” Mahundi said.

In addition, she directed the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to conduct a thorough assessment of connectivity in key tourist areas, with a view to strengthening communication networks that could bolster tourism and national revenue.

Mahundi further instructed TCRA to coordinate with Malawi's regulatory authorities to address and mitigate the current cross-border signal interference.

“TCRA must work with our Malawian counterparts to harmonize tower operations and improve signal integrity,” she added.

Earlier, Nassib Kalombora, Acting Manager of the TRA’s One-Stop Border Post at Kasumuru, highlighted how Tanzanian networks are being overwhelmed by stronger Malawian signals, leading to performance delays and increased congestion.

“The weak Tanzanian signal at this border post slows our work and causes queues due to communication disruptions,” Kalombora explained.

Responding to the concerns, TTCL’s Regional Manager for Mbeya and Songwe, Engineer Mujuni Kyaruzi, confirmed the matter is being addressed and has been escalated to higher management for resolution.

“We are working jointly with TRA, although the issue partly stems from the mismatch between the network package in use and actual traffic demands,” Kyaruzi said.

Mbeya Regional Commissioner Juma Homera appealed to the ministry to extend connectivity improvements to Chunya, another area experiencing communication difficulties.

“Deputy Minister, please ensure this request reaches your ministry, including the need to connect tourist sites to attract more visitors and boost government revenue,” Homera urged.

Local resident Kelly Mwandambo commended the government’s initiative to install the national fibre optic backbone, expressing optimism that improved internet access will stimulate economic activities, particularly in online trade.